Curcumin and Rutin Down-regulate Cyclooxygenase-2 and Reduce Tumor-associated Inflammation in HPV16-Transgenic Mice

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX2) is implicated in cancer development.
• Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) is a known carcinogen.
• Nutraceuticals are natural compounds with potential therapeutic benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of rutin and curcumin on COX2 expression and inflammation in HPV16-transgenic mice.
• To evaluate the potential of these compounds in modulating carcinogenesis.

Main Methods:

• Six-week-old FVB/n mice were divided into groups: HPV16-negative controls, HPV16-positive controls, and HPV16-positive mice treated with rutin or curcumin for 24 weeks.
• Skin lesions and inflammatory infiltrates were analyzed histologically.
• COX2 expression was quantified using immunohistochemistry.

Main Results:

• Rutin significantly reduced COX2 expression in both the dermis and epidermis of HPV16-transgenic mice.
• Curcumin also reduced COX2 expression, particularly in the epidermis.
• Both compounds decreased leukocytic infiltration, indicating reduced inflammation, but did not prevent epidermal dysplasia.

Conclusions:

• Nutraceuticals like rutin and curcumin can modulate COX2 expression and reduce inflammation associated with HPV16-induced lesions.
• These effects were insufficient to halt carcinogenesis, highlighting the need for further research into combination therapies for effective cancer prevention.